Pioneer Middle School’s Therapy Dog Program Selected as April’s Exceptional Educator

A Unique Program To Support Children in Plymouth-Canton Middle School

Giroux Pappas is proud to announce its support for a truly unique and impactful initiative at Pioneer Middle School: a therapy dog program featuring two specially trained dogs, Daisy and Ernie. This program has been selected as the firm’s Exceptional Educator for April, a designation typically reserved for educators but one that we felt made a significant impact on the Plymouth-Canton community. With a focus on providing emotional support to students dealing with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges, this initiative perfectly aligns with Giroux Pappas’ commitment to the well-being and success of local students.

At Pioneer Middle School, the priority is not only academic success but also the emotional and mental well-being of its students. Daisy and Ernie will offer vital comfort to students, serving as companions who can help reduce stress, build trust, and lower anxiety. As they begin their training to interact with students in a variety of supportive ways, Daisy and Ernie will create a safe space where students can read, talk, or simply regain focus. This new program will provide a vital resource for students, and Giroux Pappas is excited to be part of making it a reality.

“We believe this program is a perfect blend of our love for children, learning, and animals,” said Bob Giroux, founder and owner of Giroux Pappas. “As a dog owner myself, I’ve seen firsthand how much love and comfort our golden retrievers bring to our family. Daisy and Ernie will undoubtedly have a similar impact on the students at Pioneer Middle School, offering them much-needed emotional support. We’re proud to recognize this program as our Exceptional Educator for April.”

Daisy and Ernie will begin their full-time work at Pioneer Middle School in September 2025. Their hosts are the school’s principal and his wife – Mr. and Mrs. Rhein who are dedicated to ensuring the dogs are well-prepared to interact with students and faculty. Pioneer Middle School has taken all necessary steps to ensure that all interactions with the dogs will be voluntary, with accommodations made for allergies or aversions.

To learn more about the therapy dog program and the important work Daisy and Ernie will be doing, visit the Pioneer Middle School website: Pioneer Therapy Dogs Program.

To nominate an Exceptional Educator in your community tell us your story, click here.

Nominate an Exceptional Educator Today!

Do you know a teacher who goes above and beyond for their students? We’re always looking for the next amazing educator to honor! Submit your nomination for the Giroux Pappas Exceptional Educators program by completing this nominaton form Let’s give these incredible teachers the recognition they deserve!

For more information on the Exceptional Educator Award, visit https://www.greatmiattorneys.com/exceptional-educators/

Giroux Pappas created the Exceptional Educator Program and partners with WXYZ to gather nominations for educators in the area that go above and beyond for their students. Giroux Pappas launched the program in January 2022 to give back to the community it serves and has recognized and donated to a teacher each month since.

About Giroux Pappas Trial Attorneys

Giroux Pappas Trial Attorneys, P.C. , a Michigan personal injury, trial law firm specializing in providing aggressive representation for clients in Ferndale, Farmington and throughout Michigan. They help those who have suffered a personal injury stemming from an auto, motorcycle, or trucking accident; medical malpractice, birth injury, civil rights, wrongful death or workplace issue fight for their legal rights. The Giroux Pappas Trial Attorneys have experience in over 120 trials and have recovered millions for their clients.